Tag: Livin’ the Dream

Categories
Uncategorized

Editorial: change is in the air

The last three months have been extremely challenging, as I quit my job at Noodles Express to travel down to Los Angeles and follow my dream of doing a show at the Hollywood Fringe.  That involved staying in an Airbnb hostel, rehearsing and performing four times during the Fringe, and working sporadically for TrendSource.

Once the Fringe was over on June 30, I returned home to Missoula and immediately began packing for our move.  We spent the next 17 days packing as much as we could into our storage unit there, cleaning the apartment, and giving away a ton of stuff.  On Saturday, July 20, we said our goodbyes to our friend Victoria Watson who had hosted us on Friday, and set off on our new adventure.

After making a short stop in Choteau to visit family, we headed off to Yellowstone Park, arriving mid-afternoon.  We spent the rest of that day and Sunday circling the park before ending the day on Sunday at a hotel in Cody, Wyoming.  Monday morning we were up early and headed to Devil’s Tower before ending the day at Mount Rushmore, ending the night at the KOA there.  On Tuesday we headed over to Des Moines, Iowa and spent a couple of nights visiting with our dear friend and director of Girls Rock Des Moines, Sara Routh, meeting her husband and their children.  We left there Thursday morning, intending a short visit with my brother Charles and his family in Midwest City, Oklahoma.

After talking about our adventure with them, Charles’ wife Mandy talked us into staying for an extended time and putting the rest of our trip on hold.  They offered us a place in their RV and Mandy even got both of us jobs with her at Pizza Hut.

My new career as a shift manager began yesterday, and it was a crazy day, since we were short-staffed.  That craziness continued today for my second day onboard, and I haven’t even finished my training yet.  It felt good to be thrust into the fire and see just how much I could accomplish based only on my preview experience and my ability to be flexible.  Thanks to my boss Coy Brown for giving me this opportunity.

As a result of these changes, my blog is on hiatus.  We do have some upcoming articles we promised to do, but will not be producing as much content as we have in the past.  I am sure we will be back to normal eventually, and simply ask that you be patient with us until we are able to get back into the rhythm again.

In the meantime, we are working hard on the nominations for the first half of 2019, and hope to have that published shortly.  We look forward to sharing our list with you soon.  Take care and keep supporting indie music and theater.

Categories
Fringe Shows Hollywood Fringe Festival Reviews See it or Skip it

HFF19 preview day 6 – see it or skip it

Well, previews are now official complete, and the fabulous Opening Night Gala is tonight.  During previews, we took in 22 shows as well as doing our own preview of Livin’ the Dream (a journalistic journey).  Tomorrow is the first “official” day of HFF19, and we are ready, but tonight we party.  Here are our final two reviews from the previews.

TITLE OF SHOW:  The Dating Game

VENUE:  The Hudson Theatres (Guild)

REVIEW:  I try to see at least one cabaret each year, and this year I stumbled upon this one by up and coming musical comedian Darcy Rose Byrnes.  She is doing a total of five different show during Fringe and joins with the amazing Sam Johnides (who contributed to the amazing Robot Teammate musicals Turbulence and Thug Tunnel) on this one to provide a comedic look at the current dating scene.  Byrnes may be the next Carol Burnett.  She is funny and extremely talented with a voice that deserves a shot at Broadway.  Catch her now before she becomes a huge star.

RECOMMENDATION:  This one is worth checking out.  Remaining performances are June 21 at 6:30 p.m. and June 29 at 2 p.m.  Tickets are available on her Fringe project page.

TITLE OF SHOW:  Saving Cain

VENUE:  The Hudson Theatres (Guild)

REVIEW:  There are only a handful of “can’t miss” writers at the Fringe, and Aaron Kozak is definitely on that list.  His latest, Saving Cain, is an extremely well crafted masterpiece that shines new light on the religious right and those that can’t meet their standards.  He has assembled an all-star cast that includes the incomparable Leah Verrill (star of last year’s masterpiece The Women of Lockerbie) as the hard-right leaning helicopter mom, Lenny Hernandez as her hell-raising son Levi, Jim Martyka as guidance counselor Ed, and Christian Blake Splitt as her son’s best friend Bryan (who just happens to be gay).  Cindy Chavez (Nancy, Daniel Cirilo (Peter), Travis Joe Dixon (Bobby) and Tiffany Walker (Dr. Zeliner/ Pentecostal woman) likewise provide amazing support, making this one of the best dramas at this year’s Fringe, and most worthy of extending their run afterwards.  Like Guilt, this one is best viewed when you leave your religious prejudices at the door.

RECOMMENDATION:  This one is a “don’t miss.”  Remaining performances are June 15 at 2 p.m., June 16 at 4 p.m., June 22 at 4 p.m.,  June 23 at 8:30 p.m., June 29 at 4 p.m. and June 30 at 3 p.m.  Tickets are available on her Fringe project page.

Categories
Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Monday Mashup

Monday mashup 2019: vol. 19

We had a wonderful weekend.  On Friday we reviewed Doctor Nympho vs. The Sex Zombies and had a fantastic after-show hang with Alli Miller and Michael Shaw Fisher.  On Saturday, we headed down to the Hotel Cafe, where we enjoyed both Willie Wisely (with our friends Dan Kalisher and Erik Kertes in his band) and Jesse Macht and his band.  We were also happy to run into our friends Eric and Eliza Roberts, and have a chance to catch up.  On Sunday we got about halfway through our tech rehearsal for my solo show, Livin’ the Dream (a journalistic journey) for the Hollywood Fringe Festival.  Preview night is June 7, with additional performances on June 16, 20, 23 and 28.  We hope to see you at one of our performances.

NEW SINGLES

We have an extra treat for you this week, as this one fell through the cracks when it was first submitted.  It’s a little bit blues, a little bit zydeco and a whole lot of fun.  Will Jacobs is an American living in Berlin who is sharing the power of the blues with Europe.  His single is a tribute to his adopted hometown of Berlin, and is called “Berlin Bounce.”  Check it out – we bet you’ll be cutting a rug in no time flat.

Our first single comes from the band that made us fall in love with “Friends.”  The Rembrandts are back and getting ready to release their new album on Blue Élan Records.  Check out “Broken Toy.”  It perfectly reminds us of why we say “I’ll be There for You.”

Next up is a truly rocking song from a British band.  Their latest if called “Lita’s Place,” and it highlights what this band does well – entertain.  Check out Exiled – we think they’re going to be around for a while.

Next up is a song that is beautiful in its simplicity, stripped down to its purest form and perfectly performed by New West.  Here’s the latest single “Those Eyes.”

Single number four is a definite keeper from Goodside that is fresh but still oddly familiar.  It’s called “I’ve Been Feeling Something Lately,” and has a smooth sweet sound that is perfect for summer.  Check it out.

https://soundcloud.com/goodside_band/ive-been-feeling-something-lately/s-t3nT1

Our final single this week is from West Coast Weekend, and their funky retro song, “Heart Attack.”  This one has the feel of a Maroon 5 smash and could be a huge hit on radio.  Give it up for the next amazing pop superstars.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

First up is the remarkable and soulful sound of Kensington Moore.  We introduced this song to you in March as part of our Ten Great Singles, but it really comes home on the music video.  This song really got to us, and we think it could be a major smash.  Check out “I Don’t Like you Anymore.”

It’s amazing how a beautiful female voice can change everything.  Take for example the music of Ignescent a driving hard-rock band with incredibly sharp edges.  Add the voice of lead singer Jennifer Benson, and the fullness of the band is brought forth, much like what Amy Lee does for Evanescence.  Check out the lyric video for “Into the Night” – it will have you banging your head in nothing flat.

Our third video is for all you lovers of 80s/90s rock bands.  The master of guitar has returned and he’s better than ever.  Slash is now joined by Myles Kennedy and the Conspirators and they’re on a mission to save rock and roll.  Check out Exhibit 1, ‘Boulevard of Broken Hearts.”  Behold, the king returns.

Next up is a band that is heading for Los Angeles, and will be playing here at the Bootleg Theater on May 19.  They pack a powerful punch and remind us of back when the Red Hot Chili Peppers were huge.  They call themselves The Unlikely Candidates, but we think they soon will be your go-to choice for great music.  Here’s their video for “Novocaine.”

Our final video this is “Cry Like a Girl,” from one of our long-time favorites, Brooke Moriber.  We introduced her to you back in October 2015, and she was a nominee for the LA Music Critic Awards for the second half of 2015.  We think she’ll become one of your favorites as well.

Categories
Artists Worth Checking Out Hollywood Fringe Festival indie music LA Music Critic Awards Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2019: vol. 14

What a crazy conclusion to this year’s March Madness – I never would have picked Virginia and Texas Tech as the two best in the country who will fight tonight for the National Championship.  At least baseball is more predictable, and my Brewers continue to dominate the division before heading out to the west coast to play the Angels and Dodgers.

Speaking of the west coast, we are making our final preparations for our trip to California at the end of April for the 10th annual Hollywood Fringe Festival.  We have an AirBnB in central Hollywood near Theatre Row, and can hardly wait to begin rehearsals for my solo show, Livin’ the Dream (a journalistic journey), which opens with a preview show on June 7 at studio/stage in Hollywood.  We have launched a GoFundMe page, and have begun to receive donations and could really use your help.  Please give if you can or at least share our need with your friends and family.

We are also making final preparations for the third annual LA Music Critic Award Winners Showcase on June 18 at the Mint LA, which will honor Women in Entertainment.  Our lineup for the night includes Emily Zuzik, Dree Mon, Constanza Herrero, Amilia K. Spicer, The HawtThorns, Brigitte Rios Purdy, Fanny Walked the Earth, Manda Mosher, The Spider Accomplice and Lawrence Lebo, with a very special appearance by Jordan Siwek.  Tickets are $10 in advance through PayPal and $13 at the door if there is space available.  A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Sweet Relief Musicians Fund.  Please buy your tickets now and help us support women and Sweet Relief.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single this week comes from Ugandan Suzan Mutesi, and we love the rhythm  and vibe of this cool song, and definitely agree, “This Feeling is Mutual.”

Our world-wide tour next takes us to Greece for the sweet and soulful sound of Eleni Drake and her song, “4.”  We think it’s definitely a “10.”

We return to Dallas, Texas for the debut single of the amazing Sydney Cope, who has a sound somewhere between Justin Timberlake and Ariana Grande.  We think she hits the nail on the head with this one, appropriately titled “Watch Out for Me.”

From the USA to the UK we travel for our fourth single from a singer-songwriter who mixes folk, pop, reggae and more into her amazing style.  Lucy Gallant has it all in her song “Not Normal,” and we simply love her style.

We close out our Women in Entertainment themed New Singles section with another debut single, this time from Cincinatti-based singer songwriter Shannon Garcia, who teams up with Josiah Wolf of Why? for “Spooky Action at a Distance.”  We would rather keep this one close to our heart.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first music video continues our world-wide tour as it was filmed in Cape Town, South Africa.  Check out this beautiful lyric video by Saul City for their song “Let Go.”

Next up is a band that reminds us of the sweet Americana sound of Suzanne Santo and honeyhoney.  We are pleased to introduce you to Boston-based Honeysuckle and their song, “Old Firestarter,” with its simple videography that so beautiful tells the story of the song.

Huge props to our next artist, Savannah Pope, for her ingenious portrayal of her song, “Rock n’ Roll No More.”  She truly brings the rock on this one, so we have to respectfully disagree that “nobody loves rock n’ roll no more.”  She definitely takes us to church on this one.

We introduced you to the song “Closer” by DAYLA in our Ten Great Singles of March article.  We are so glad to now share the stunning video of the same song, and think that you will fall in love with this amazing artist, just like we have.

We close out this week’s Monday Mashup with Dutch pop star Maya Lavelle‘s intriguing video for her song, “Dancing with a Bottle.”  We introduced her to you back in February.  She uses text messages to convey the lyrics for the video, which was shot in Las Vegas and Los Angeles, and makes us want to hang out with her.  Let us know what you think.

 

Categories
Artists Worth Checking Out Durango Songwriters Expo Hollywood Fringe Festival Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2018: vol. 41

Happy Veterans Day (day 2).  Since the real day fell on a Sunday, the government is honoring it today, giving us veterans a double holiday.  Thanks to Red Robin and Applebee’s for feeding so many of us yesterday, and to Denny’s and Noodles Express for taking care of us today.  We’ve got some news for you, as well as five new singles and music videos to share, so grab your coffee and let’s get going.

HOLLYWOOD FRINGE FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES DATES FOR 2019

The tenth annual Hollywood Fringe Festival will be held June 13-30, 2019, with previews from June 6-11 and the Opening Night Party on June 12.  In addition, they are now accepting applications for Fringe Scholarships.  As we previously informed you, our very own LA Music Critic has launched an Indiegogo campaign to raise money for his first solo show, Livin’ the Dream, which is scheduled to premiere at HFF19.  Please check out his campaign and support him if you can.  We thank you for whatever you can contribute.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single comes from a pair of songwriters we have met as a result of our involvement in the Durango Songwriters Expo.  Richard Harris is an amazing songwriter and mentor who has worked with a number of DSE alum, and his collaboration with fellow Brit Greg Holden on “Something Beautiful” gives us hope in this troubled time.  We have wanted to share this one since we heard it at the Expo in October.

While we’re spotlighting UK artists, here are a couple of singles we have received as a result of our affiliation with “Send to Media.”  First up is Welshman Ryan Davies, who continues the aforementioned theme with “Beautiful Thing.”  This one reminds us of Rod Stewart.

Our third single is a super-cool upbeat dance pop track from Fanny Andersen.  Check out her groovy number, “Dollar Signs.”  Although this one technically came out in September, we missed it and wanted you to have the chance to hear what should be the first of many hit songs from her.

https://soundcloud.com/edda-music/fanny-andersen-dollar-igns/s-5gCif

Our fourth single comes from Hotel Mira, who says they were inspired to write “Jungle” after viewing the Oscar nominated film, Lady Bird.  Let us know what you think of this outstanding indie rock band, which we previously featured in our Ten Great Singles of April article.

Our final single today is a delightful cover of the Prince-written Sinead O’Connor song “Nothing Compares 2 U” by Norwegian artist Anna of the North.  Enjoy this one which should get your week off to a great start.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video this week is from former Mickey Mouse Club and The Voice contestant Tony Lucca, who reminds us that “Everthing’s Changing.”  We love this one.

Next up is the latest from the one and only KT Tunstall.  Here’s her video for her latest single, “Human Being.”  Special props to Eccaia Sampson, the unbelievable 8-year old martial artist who stars in the video.

Our third video is some rocking blues from Karen Lawrence and Blue by Nature.  Check out this live version of their song, “It’s All About You.”  Thanks to Doug Deutsch for sharing this one with us.

Our fourth video takes us from the blues to R&B.  We love this one from the amazing Lorelle Howard, who mixes several genres to deliver a gem in “Runnin.”

Our final video this week is “World Domination,” an indie rock post apocalyptic smash from Band of Silver that pays homage to such classic movies as The Hunger Games.

 

Categories
Artists Worth Checking Out Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2018: vol. 39

It’s that rare fifth Monday, and we have a very special Mashup for you today.  We are proud to debut a new single that is being released tomorrow, in advance of the release of the artist’s first novel on November 6, which is based on notes from her ten years of touring in Los Angeles and San Diego.  We are in the process of reviewing the book and think you will love her new sound and new stage name.  In addition, we have five new singles and five new music videos to share, so let’s get this party going.

TABITHA RHYS TO RELEASE FIRST NOVEL

Tabitha Rhys is a long-time indie artist who has taken her experiences from touring through Los Angeles and San Diego to write her first novel, Love Music Madness, which is being released on November 6.  Check out the book trailer:

That song you hear in the background was written by Rhys.  Since she no longer has a band, she enlisted the help of Stereium to create the “Lana del Rey” sound.  The song is being released TOMORROW, but we have a sneak preview for you today.  We really love her style, and can’t wait to review the novel and any more music that follows.  You can purchase the single on iTunes.

LA MUSIC CRITIC LAUNCHES INDIEGOGO CAMPAIGN

Our very own LA Music Critic has launched an Indiegogo campaign to raise money for his first solo show, scheduled to premiere at HFF19 in Los Angeles next June.  Please check out his campaign and support him if you can.  We thank you for whatever you can contribute.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single comes from another amazing artist from Blue Élan Records, whose new album V will be released in January 2019.  In the meantime, enjoy the southern charm of The Vegabonds‘ new single, “I Ain’t Having It.”

Next up is “Hiya”, the latest offering from TNEO (The New Electronic Orchestra).  They wanted to say hello to all their current and future fans with this delightfully upbeat song.  You can’t help but be uplifted by this beautiful pop/classic sound, and we think you’ll soon become a fan if you aren’t already.

Our third single comes from one of our favorite female indie artists.  Jess Klein has consistently delivered amazing songs, and her new single, “Mammal,” is no exception.  Enjoy this one, and be free to be you.

Our next single comes from Perth, Australia-based artist Frankie Crea.  We think you will love his new song, “Dream.”

Our final single this week is from Canadian band Victory Chimes.  Check out “Halos” from their forthcoming album, due for release next month.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video this week is from Ziggy Alberts, another amazing Aussie indie artist.  We love the simple and sweet sound of “Stronger,” and think you will too.

Next is “Killah,” the visually stunning music video from indie folk artist Frank James.  This one should become one of your favorite jams, as he mixes hip-hop with folk to create a truly unique sound.

We are so proud to present our third video from the amazing Jane Ellen Bryant, who we recently reviewed in our Get it or Forget it series.  Check out this incredible video for her song, “Too Smooth.”  We think it truly describes this artist.

Our fourth video is likewise smooth, with the groovy R&B/soul sound of Dom Marcell.  Here is his song, “Thats Whats Up.”

We close out this week and the month of October with this video from Germany-based trio The Trouble Notes.  This is one of the best pop/classical songs we have heard and we love their video for “Grand Masquerade.”  We think you will truly love both the sound and the cinematography.

 

Categories
Artists Worth Checking Out Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2018: vol. 38

It was a terrible weekend for our favorite teams, as Milwaukee lost in Game 7, Wake Forest gave up a 10 point lead and lost to Florida State, and the Dolphins gave the Lions 10 points for every touchdown they scored, losing 32-21.  At least we have some new music to share with you that might take the edge off, so sit back and let’s get grooving.

HOLLYWOOD FRINGE FESTIVAL 2019 NEWS

We’re so pleased to announce the official dates for the 2019 Hollywood Fringe Festival.   The tenth annual festival will open with previews June 6-11 and their Opening Night Party on June 12.  The Festival will run from June 13-30, concluding with the amazing awards show on June 30.  If you are interested in participating,  create a project today.

Make your plans now to attend the debut of “Livin’ the Dream,” the behind-the-scenes solo show about the life and career of the LA Music Critic, one of many great shows to choose from at HFF19.

In addition, they are offering a Creative Workshop Series. This year it will be held on November 3 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and will feature a full day of sessions on writing, sharing and critiquing ,as well as lots of panels.  The sessions are PWYC with a suggested ticket price of $20.  You can get more information about the offerings as well as reserve a seat here.

NEW SINGLES

They say the third time is a charm, so let’s hope so.  We have been trying to share this amazing single with you for a while, but so many good things have been happening with it that it has not been available.  We can now finally share “Haunt’d” by the up and coming superstar Kenna, a Nashville singer-songwriter with a brilliant future.  We think you’ll love this one.

We have a couple of songs we are happy to premiere.  First up is “PTSD,” from the sweet sound of Stalking Gia.  This one has an infectious dance groove supporting incredible vocals and well-written lyrics, for a totally different take on the subject.  This one could easily become a Top 40 hit.

The second of our premieres is from Los Angeles-based rock band Uniform Standard, who bring us “Filthy Mouth.”  This one will definitely get your week rocking, with lots of double entendre and the soaring vocals of lead singer Dana Andrews, who was one of the contestants on Rockstar: Supernova.

Our fourth single is from Boise, Idaho based band Messimer.  We like their retro sound and think you will like it too.  Here’s “I Know I Should.”

https://soundcloud.com/messimer/i-know-i-should

Our final single this week is from an artist we believe is on the cusp of greatness.  Check out “Let it Out” by the amazing R&B/pop vocalist Dominque Tey.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

First up this week is the amazing sound of Big Lonely with their tune “Ticket.”  We absolutely love the sound of this tune, and the video will definitely get you ready for Halloween.

Our next video is the latest from Sexy Dex and The Fresh, who we have previously featured.  Check out the vibe of “!Wait!”

Our third video will grab you, with the smoky voice of Ashley Iona, which just doesn’t seem to fit her image.  We love the uniqueness of her sound, and are really digging her new track, “Leaving.”

Next up is the video interpretation of Julie-Anne‘s song, “Met by Grace.”  This one is a beautiful anthem of hope, with a stellar violin track.  Please let us know what you think about this one.

Our final music video this week is the latest from the ever-evolving music genius Dree Mon.  Get up and Dance with her amazing song, “Dance Like I Want To.”

 

 

Categories
Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it Reviews Women in Entertainment

Get it or forget it – Norphlet, Marty Elkins, Bruce Katz Band, Changelings, Leeroy

It’s already Wednesday again, and I’m getting ready for my first session with Jessica Lynn Johnson, the director of my solo show, Livin’ the Dream.  We are working hard to give you a treat next June at the Hollywood Fringe Festival, and I can’t wait to see your reaction to our show.  In the meantime, here are five artists to consider as we head over the hump to the weekend.

Artist Name:  Norphlet

Album Name:  Norphlet

Label:  849854 Records DK

Genre:  Alt Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Brand New; 2.  Heirlooming; 3.  The Recess (Interlude); 4.  Omador; 5.  Cardinals

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Norphlet is an up and coming duo featuring a Californian and a Texan, and we couldn’t be happier with the results.  These songs belong on the radio, and we truly love the first two singles, “Brand New” and “Heirlooming.”  The songs are truly well written, with intelligent lyrics, an amazing lead guitar and a powerful drum foundation.  The instrumental interludes are straight alt rock, and would make the perfect soundtrack for commercials, while the tracks themselves should be considered for placement in television and film.  We also love the lo-fi production, which brings out the strong vibe of this band, especially on the acoustic ballad “Cardinals.”  We have no doubt that this band has what it takes to make it in the industry, and we look forward to seeing what they have in store for us.

Recommendation:  Definitely Get it!

Artist Name:  Marty Elkins

Album Name:  Fat Daddy

Label:  Nagel Heyer Records

Genre:  Jazz/Blues

Track Listing:  1.  You Turned the Tables on Me; 2.  On Revival Day; 3.  How can you Face Me; 4.  That’s all There is to That; 5.  It’s too hot for Words; 6.  Cow Cow Boogie; 7.  I Cover the Waterfront; 8.  It’s a Pity to say Goodnight; 9.  My old Flame; 10.  Fat Daddy; 11.  I Can’t Face the Music; 12.  Sugar; 13.  These Foolish Things; 14.  Travelin’ all Alone

Publicist:  Mouthpiece Music

Review:  These jazz standards may have been previously recorded by such jazz legends as Alice Faye, Ella Fitzgerald and Ethel Waters, but Marty Elkins breathes new life into them, infusing them for a new generation.  Her voice is impeccable, and the arrangements will have every traditional jazz lover jumping for joy.  We love her scatting on “You Turned the Tables on Me,” as well as the organ and trumpet.  This is a great album for chilling after work, and relaxing with a glass of your favorite wine.  Elkins seamlessly blends jazz and blues, and even adds a gospel touch to “On Revival Day.”  We simply love every song, and think you will too.

Recommendation:  If you love traditional jazz and the blues, then this one is a must-have.  Get it!

Artist Name:  Bruce Katz Band

Album Name:  Get Your Groove

Label:  American Showplace Music

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1.  Hesitation Blues; 2.  Freight Train; 3.  Beef Jerky; 4.  Shine Together (Tribe of Lights); 5.  River Blues; 6.  Make Things Right; 7.  Get Your Groove!; 8.  Zone 3; 9.  Rush Hour; 10.  Wasn’t my Time; 11.  The Bun

Publicist:  Rick Lusher

Review:  Traditional blues always sound better with a funky organ and a wailing guitar, and this album has that in spades.  Add to that the soulful voice of Bruce Katz and you have the perfect recipe for a rocking blues sound that will get you on your feet and grooving to the music.  The instrumentals “Freight Train,” “Beef Jerky” and “River Blues” would work great as commercial placements, while the remainder of the songs are radio friendly and also good material for music supervisors.  You can’t go wrong with the amazing sound of this band, and we would love to see them perform live, as we are sure that all of the amazing energy would translate well in a concert setting.  “Shine Together (Tribe of Lights)” and “Make Things Right” would make great theme songs for a worthy charity.  They are very inspirational and the cherry on top of this perfect album.

Recommendation:  Don’t “hesitate,” Get this one today.

Artist Name:  Changelings

Album Name:  From my Raygun With Love

Label:  Marshmallow Pavement Records

Genre:  Dream Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Love Like Diamonds; 2.  Fridge Buzz; 3.  Baby We’re Falling Upwards; 4.  Moondance Venus; 5.  Escapist; 6.  Withdrawal; 7.  Andrea; 8.  They Don’t Hold a Candle

Publicist:  The A&R Department

Review:  We have heard so much great music lately from down under, and Changelings has to be near the top of the heap.  Their music is very chill and dreamy, with a vibe that totally relaxes the listener.  The songs are truly radio friendly, and perfect for numerous placements in film and television.  These songs are like diamonds, perfectly reflecting the light.  Lead single “Moondance Venus” is the obvious choice for a break-out song, and we think it highlights the best parts of this album.

Recommendation:  We highly recommend you Get this one.

Artist Name:  Leeroy

Album Name:  Burn to Ashes

Label:  A&R Records

Genre:  Indie Rock/R&B/Reggae

Track Listing:   1.  Burn to Ashes; 2.  Freedom’s Prisoners; 3.  Mr. Steal Your Girl; 4.  Roamer

Publicist:  The A&R Department

Review:  We were hooked from the first notes, but the amazing vocals truly put this one over the top.  We just wish there were more than four tracks, because our appetite is ravenous for more.  We love the fact that his music combines elements of rock, R&B and reggae, and especially love “Mr. Steal Your Girl.”  Leeroy is an amazing guitarist and vocalist, and we expect great things from him in the not too distant future.

Recommendation:  Drop what you’re doing and Get this one.